Last winter, I noticed some issues with the furnace.
It seemed to be running a lot more often and longer than usual. The heating system was struggling to keep up with the thermostat setting and the house felt chilly. There was a definite difference in temperature between the various rooms. I also had to dust and vacuum more frequently. Because I am conscientious about air filter changes and scheduling professional maintenance in the fall, I was surprised by the complaints with the furnace. I called my regular HVAC contractor and explained my concerns. He immediately suspected the ductwork as the source of the problems. After completing a testing of airflow through the ductwork, he determined that approximately 25% of the heated air was escaping through holes and cracks at the seams. These same leaks were drawing in cold, dirty outdoor air and spreading contaminants throughout the house. I had no idea how duct sealing could be completed without a major mess. The ductwork is installed behind the walls and ceilings. The contractor explained a fairly new technology called Aeroseal works to fix leaks from the inside. He first sealed off the supply and return registers. He then pumped highly pressurized air into the ductwork. This air was laced with adhesive polymer particles that are non-toxic. As the air escaped through the holes in the ducts, those particles clung to the edges and steadily built up to provide an airtight seal. The whole process was completed within a couple of hours. It is guaranteed to last ten years and makes a huge improvement in the comfort, cleanliness and efficiency of the home.